Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy, is known for its rich history and cultural significance. However, the city is now making headlines for a different reason – a lawsuit against the Department of the Interior.
On Thursday, the city of Philadelphia filed a lawsuit against the Department of the Interior over the removal of an exhibit on slavery from the President’s House site in Independence National Historical Park. The lawsuit, which was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, requests a preliminary injunction to keep the displays up. The city argues that the exhibit was removed “without notice” and “presumably pursuant” to the Department of Interior’s policies.
The President’s House site, located just steps away from the iconic Liberty Bell, was once the home of George Washington and John Adams during their presidencies. It was also the home of enslaved individuals, including Oney Judge, who was one of the few slaves to escape from Washington’s household.
The exhibit, titled “The President’s House: Freedom and Slavery in the Making of a New Nation,” was first opened in 2010 and depicted the lives of the enslaved individuals who lived and worked in the President’s House. It was a powerful and important reminder of the city’s past and the role of slavery in shaping the nation.
The decision to remove the exhibit was met with widespread disappointment and criticism from the community. Many argued that the exhibit was a vital part of the site’s history and removing it would be erasing an important chapter in America’s story.
The city’s lawsuit states that the removal of the exhibit violates the National Historic Preservation Act, which requires federal agencies to “take into account the effect of their actions on historic properties.” Furthermore, it argues that the Department of the Interior’s actions were based on unlawful and incorrect interpretations of federal law.
The lawsuit also highlights the lack of transparency in the Department of the Interior’s decision-making process. The city claims that it was not given any notice or opportunity to provide input before the exhibit was taken down. This lack of communication and disregard for the city’s concerns is deeply concerning.
The removal of the exhibit has not only sparked legal action but has also reignited the conversation about the need for continued education and remembrance of America’s history with slavery. The city of Philadelphia has long been committed to preserving and sharing its history, and the exhibit was a crucial aspect of that effort.
In a statement, Mayor Jim Kenney expressed his disappointment and frustration with the Department of the Interior’s actions. He stated, “This exhibit was an important part of our city’s efforts to educate the public about the complex and painful history of slavery in America. Its removal not only erases an important part of our past but also undermines our ability to learn from it.”
The President’s House site is a symbol of the struggle for freedom and democracy in America. It represents the sacrifices and contributions of all individuals, including those who were enslaved. Removing the exhibit diminishes the significance of their stories and perpetuates a whitewashed version of history.
The city’s lawsuit is not only about preserving a physical exhibit but also about upholding the values of inclusivity and diversity in our society. It is a call to recognize and acknowledge the full extent of our nation’s past and to continue the dialogue about progress and equality.
Philadelphia’s lawsuit against the Department of the Interior serves as a reminder that our nation’s history cannot and should not be erased. It is a reminder of the importance of preserving and sharing our history, even when it is uncomfortable or painful. We must continue to honor the past to shape a better future.
